Check that the hardware is compatible with your door thickness. For interior doors, a thickness of 1 3/8 inches is recommended. Exterior doors should have a thickness of 1 3/4 inches.
The required diameter of the door’s hole for hardware is the size of the bore. You will need to replace your hardware. To make a new door, you’ll need a hole saw that is the right size. Deadbolts typically require a borehole of 1 1/2 inches or 2 1/8 inches in diameter. A hole of 2 1/8 inches is required for handsets and levers.
Check the backseat when you are looking for replacement hardware. This refers to the distance between the door’s edge and the borehole. The most common sizes are 2 3/8 inches and 2 3/4 inches, although Emtek door hardware can accommodate multiple backsets. You should ensure that the hardware you choose fits your door.
Pay attention to the bolt or latch configuration. The plate around the bolt or latch on the edge of the door is either square-corner or round-corner. Hardware for a drive-in configuration does not require a plate. Installing a lockset replacement that matches your current configuration is easier when you buy it. Hardware that can be used with multiple configurations is also available.
Check that the hardware fits the application. Exterior doors are protected by entry hardware. Privacy hardware is a basic lock that can be used in bedrooms and bathrooms. Passage hardware is used for interior doors that do not require locks, such as closets or family room doors. Dummy hardware can be used for decorative purposes, such as matching operational hardware on double doors or serving as knobs or lever pulls for interior doors that do not require functional hardware.
Check the security rating of an entry door lock (also known as a lockset). Multiple entry doors can be set up (keyed) so that they all work with the same key. This may not work with locks from different brands. Do-it-yourself locks allow you to configure the lock without having to remove the hardware. This feature is useful if you have lost your key or want to make sure it cannot be used to gain access to your home.
You should look for designs that are resistant to attempts to break an entry lock such as bumping, picking, and drilling.
Choosing The Right Lockset
Consider the following factors when deciding on which lockset is best for you:
How often do you get locked out? A keyless lockset that has a programmable access password will protect you and your family from costly calls to a locksmith if you are prone to losing keys.
How often are you required to grant access to your home or business? You can use smart and electronic locks to give temporary access codes to your home for maintenance personnel and guests or even open your doors remotely. You won’t have to leave a spare key out, as potential burglars will know where it is.
Types Of Locks
Electronic Door Locks
Electronic locks offer security and convenience. The best electronic door lock for you depends on your needs. There are many benefits to electronic door locks. You don’t need a key to operate the electronic door locks. Instead of relying on keys, you can use a touch screen, numeric keypad, or keychain remote. Biometric locks can read your thumbprint. Many models come with keys for backup and offer automatic, no-touch locking after a time. You should look for locks that allow you to create temporary access codes you can send guests or service providers. Some electronic locks can detect a registered smartphone, key fob, or other device and will unlock automatically.
Keyed Door Knobs
Door knobs are a popular version of keyed hardware and offer traditional design and operation. The knobs have a latch that releases when you turn it. The knob can be locked to prevent the latch from being removed from the outside by turning the knob without the use of a key. To lock or unlock the door, the thumb turn on the knob’s inside can be found. Some models have push-button locking that locks the door and disengages when you turn it.